31039, Howard, Georgia Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 31039, Howard, Georgia is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 31039 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 31039 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31039. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18 health care providers accessible to residents in 31039, Howard, Georgia.

## Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Howard, GA (ZIP Code 31039)

This analysis provides a comprehensive 'Breast Cancer Score' assessment for primary care physicians and associated resources within the Howard, Georgia (ZIP Code 31039) area. The evaluation considers factors crucial for early detection, treatment, and overall patient well-being, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health support. This score aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, enabling informed decisions for individuals seeking quality breast cancer care.

The foundation of any strong breast cancer care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Howard, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Analyzing data from sources like the Georgia Department of Public Health and publicly available databases reveals a potential scarcity of PCPs relative to the population size. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, delayed screenings, and reduced opportunities for preventative care, all of which are detrimental to breast cancer outcomes. Further investigation is required to quantify the exact ratio and its impact on patient access.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the existing practices are crucial. The analysis considers the adoption of evidence-based practices, such as adherence to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for mammography screening. Practices that proactively remind patients of their screening appointments, provide patient education materials, and maintain a strong referral network to specialists will score higher. This includes a demonstrable commitment to breast cancer screening guidelines, including mammography, clinical breast exams, and patient education materials.

Furthermore, the presence of dedicated breast health programs within primary care practices is a significant positive factor. These programs often involve specialized nurses or coordinators who guide patients through the screening process, provide emotional support, and facilitate communication with specialists. The analysis seeks to identify practices that have established these programs, indicating a commitment to comprehensive breast cancer care.

The rise of telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The 'Breast Cancer Score' assesses the extent to which primary care practices in Howard have adopted telemedicine technologies. This includes the availability of virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, prescription refills, and preliminary consultations. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and allow patients to receive timely support, particularly for those living in underserved areas.

Mental health support is a critical, often overlooked, component of breast cancer care. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. The analysis examines the availability of mental health resources within the primary care practices and the broader community. This includes on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, and access to support groups. Practices that prioritize mental health support will receive a higher score, reflecting a commitment to holistic patient care.

Specific practices within the 31039 ZIP code are then evaluated based on the criteria outlined above. This involves gathering information from various sources, including practice websites, patient reviews, and publicly available data. The analysis identifies standout practices that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care, highlighting their strengths and areas of innovation. This information can be invaluable for patients seeking a primary care physician who prioritizes breast health.

The analysis also considers the availability of resources within the broader community. This includes access to diagnostic imaging centers, oncologists, surgeons, and support groups. The proximity of these resources and the ease with which patients can access them are important factors in the overall 'Breast Cancer Score'. This also involves assessing the presence of community-based organizations that provide breast cancer education, support, and financial assistance.

The evaluation process involves assigning numerical scores to each practice based on the criteria outlined above. These scores are then aggregated to produce an overall 'Breast Cancer Score' for each practice. The scores are then used to rank the practices, providing a clear and concise assessment of their strengths and weaknesses. This ranking can be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The analysis also considers the demographics of the Howard population. This includes factors such as age, race, and socioeconomic status. This information is used to identify potential disparities in access to care and to ensure that the 'Breast Cancer Score' is equitable. This ensures that the analysis takes into account the unique needs of the community.

The 'Breast Cancer Score' is not a static measure. It is designed to be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes new advancements in breast cancer care, changes in practice policies, and the availability of new resources. The ongoing nature of this assessment ensures that it remains a valuable tool for patients and healthcare providers alike.

The final 'Breast Cancer Score' is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the breast cancer care landscape in Howard, GA. It is not a substitute for medical advice, and patients should always consult with their healthcare providers to discuss their individual needs. However, the analysis provides a valuable starting point for patients seeking to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

The data used for this analysis is gathered from a variety of sources, including public records, healthcare provider websites, and patient reviews. The analysis is conducted by a team of experienced healthcare professionals who are dedicated to providing accurate and reliable information. The analysis is designed to be transparent and objective, and the methodology is clearly documented.

In conclusion, the 'Breast Cancer Score' analysis provides a detailed assessment of the availability and quality of breast cancer care in Howard, GA (ZIP Code 31039). It highlights the importance of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support. This analysis is a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and community organizations seeking to improve breast cancer outcomes.

**For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Howard, GA, including physician locations, resource availability, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and insightful way to understand the complexities of healthcare access in your community.**